Weather for the week of December 11th

The week of December 11th began with a cool but sunny Sunday with highs in the low 30’s. Snow flurries appeared in the late afternoon and early evening and then the snow became steadier as the evening progressed. The forecast calls for snow and ice overnight and snow possibly turning to rain in the morning on Monday. Snow accumulation could be as high as 6 inches. The temperatures on Monday are expected to rise into the high 30’s with the precipitation turning to rain! start out bawl frizzing and the rise into the high 30’s during the afternoon. Tuesday’s highs will hover in the low 30’s with a mix of cloud and sun. By Wednesday clouds will move in and the highs will stay below frizzing barely reaching 30 degrees. VERY cold weather moves in by Thursday with highs only in the high teens and overnight temperatures below 0. Some snow flurries are possible. Friday will be even colder with highs in the low teens. although there will be some sun. By Saturday the highs will be back in the low 30’s with the chance of early morning snow. Be sure you are dressed appropriately in clothing which will wick away moisture to keep you from developing a chill in colder temperatures. Clothes that have pit zips are great and layering with non-cotton materials are a must for the varying temperatures. Keeping hydrated in cooler weather can sometimes be tricky as you do not feel as thirsty but hydrating properly will allow you to hike longer and in greater comfort. It is also time to start bringing along the spikes or crampons. Snowshoes may also be useful especially at higher elevations. Be sure to carry water with you as local water sources can be unreliable and may be contaminated. Once you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated! Remember, the weather forecast is only a prediction and always contains percentages. Be prepared and have a plan for the most likely and least likely forecast! Are you prepared to stay out overnight on a trail? Conditions in the morning can change drastically by afternoon. Conditions at the trailhead do not always reflect the conditions on the peaks! Variable trail and weather conditions are a hallmark of these mountains. BE CAREFUL AND BE PREPARED!